rhumatoïde

Rhumatoïde is a term of French origin that translates to "rheumatoid" in English. It is primarily used in a medical context to refer to conditions related to rheumatism, which is a general term for diseases that cause pain and stiffness in the joints, muscles, or connective tissues.

The most prominent condition associated with the term "rhumatoïde" is rheumatoid arthritis. This is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, swelling, and eventually joint damage and deformity. In rheumatoid arthritis, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, particularly the lining of the joints, known as the synovium.

While rheumatoid arthritis is the most common and well-known condition, the term rhumatoïde can also be used more broadly to describe other inflammatory rheumatic diseases. These can include conditions like ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and various forms of connective tissue diseases, although specific diagnostic terminology often distinguishes these further.

The symptoms associated with rhumatoïde conditions can vary widely depending on the specific disease, but commonly include joint pain, stiffness (especially in the morning), swelling, redness, and reduced range of motion. Fatigue, fever, and weight loss can also be present in some cases. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests (looking for inflammatory markers and specific antibodies), and imaging studies like X-rays or ultrasounds. Treatment aims to manage inflammation, relieve pain, prevent joint damage, and improve function, often involving medication and physical therapy.